Pennridge High School’s students and staff benefit from a fantastic support source: Kebo, a therapy dog dedicated to relieving stress and comforting individuals in need. Kebo has established himself as a well-known figure on campus, delivering emotional assistance to students facing new challenges in academic life. Studies indicate that therapy dogs can help diminish anxiety, enhance well-being, and are essential assets for the school community. For many, Kebo is more than a dog; he’s a furry friend who makes tough days easier.
Therapy animals bring so much value to our school,” said Special Education Teacher Angela James, showing their importance for providing emotional support and teaching life skills. James described Keebo’s impact on one of her students, explaining, “He loves animals, and even on a bad day, spending time with Keebo calms him down and helps him get through the day.” Keebo’s presence has helped encourage Trevor, who uses a wheelchair, to take Keebo for walks, “It’s a great way to get him to do things he might not want to do.” The only challenge teachers face is students wanting more time with him. James noted, “Teachers need to recognize when students are uncomfortable with animals and foster communication to ensure positive experiences.” She further said, “Love every opportunity,” explaining how therapy animals like Keebo enhance the Pennridge High School community.
Keebo is one of the few animals at Pennridge High School who knows how to help the students and educators in need. Whether he lets them pet him, makes them laugh, or simply sits down and lets them look at him. Keebo is a dog of loyalty and loves to go up to his people at school and say hello, hoping to make their day a little bit better. After his long days at work helping people all day, he likes to go home and play with his toys. Once he gets tired from all the excitement of letting out his pent-up energy, he sleeps for around 20 hours before waking up and doing it all over again. Keebo has shown in many ways that he loves what he does, and Pennridge does not plan to get rid of this furry friend soon.
